The adoption of methanol-fueled vessels in the container shipping industry is on the rise, with HMM joining the ranks of companies embracing this environmentally friendly fuel option. Currently, there are 26 methanol-fueled containerships in service, and orders have been placed for an additional 200 vessels. In comparison, there are 166 containerships powered by LNG currently in operation. HMM’s decision to invest in methanol-fueled vessels aligns with their expansion and environmental goals.
HMM placed an order for its first methanol vessels in February 2023, with seven ships to be constructed by HD Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries and two by HJ Shipbuilding & Construction. The first vessel, named HMM Green, has been delivered and is set to arrive in Busan on March 26. These vessels have a capacity of 9,000 TEU and are equipped with various environmental technologies, including a methanol-fueled propulsion system, shore power capabilities, and a ballast water treatment system.
HMM plans to bunker the new vessel with bio-methanol at the port of Shanghai, derived from waste resources. This eco-friendly fuel option can reduce carbon emissions by up to 65%, eliminate sulfur oxide emissions, and cut nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional bunker fuel. The new vessel will operate on HMM’s route between Far East Asia, India, and the Mediterranean, contributing to the company’s goal of reaching a 1 million TEU capacity later this year. Currently, HMM is the eighth largest container carrier with a capacity of approximately 922,000 TEU.
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